This class of enzymes, called retroviral proteases, has a critical role in how the AIDS virus matures and proliferates. Intensive research is under way to try to find anti-AIDS drugs that can block these enzymes, but efforts were hampered by not knowing exactly what the retroviral protease molecule looks like.

So after turning a problem into a game, with competition against other plays and the prize of academic publication, the problem was solved. In three weeks.

As a result, scientists may now develop drugs that can deactivate the enzyme. In the best-case scenario, the right drug might prevent HIV from ever developing into AIDS.

Thanks to a game.

Note: You can use Foldit to solve puzzles for science (or, as we like to call it, SCIENCE!) at the Foldit website. You don't need a background in chemistry or biology to participate, just good spatial awareness and an ability to solve 3-D puzzles.